Lying between the Olympic Peninsula and the I-5 corridor of Western Washington, Whidbey Island is home to beautiful beaches, parks, and reserve areas. You will realize soon enough that it is very easy to get mesmerized not only by the incredible views but also by the breathtaking variety of birds.
With 148 miles of winding shoreline, lakes, state parks, and plenty of hiking trails, it is not surprising that Whidbey accommodates roughly 250 resident and migrant bird species.
Some of the best times to watch birds on Whidbey Island are Spring, Fall, and Winter. And some of the best places to watch for shorebirds are Penn Cove, Keystone landing, Dugualla Bay, and Ft. Casey State Park.
Whidbey Island is native to species like Eagles, Northern Harriers, wading birds, loons, grebes, sea ducks, including Harlequin Ducks, dabbling ducks, Black Oystercatchers, Common Yellowthroats, Marsh Wrens, and more. It is also is a temporary home for migrant birds who frequent the island seasonally for the island’s ideal breeding habitats.
Some birds like robins, hawks, cardinals, finches, sparrows, and more stay here all year but they seem to “return” because they become active again during the spring through fall seasons after they have bundled down in their nests and shelters during the winter.
The Whidbey Audubon society has plenty of information on their webpage here and even a detailed birding guide
Check the printable map HERE and hope you get to enjoy some birdwatching!
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